Matthew 17:23- “They will kill him, and on the third day he will be raised to life.” And the disciples were filled with grief.
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Jesus continues explaining to His disciples what will soon happen to Him. He plainly states that He will be killed but will rise again on the third day. This is a clear and direct prediction of His death and resurrection.
The disciples, however, focus only on the part about His death. They are overcome with grief, unable to comprehend the hope and victory in His resurrection. This reflects their incomplete understanding of Jesus’ mission and the significance of His sacrifice.
Jesus’ words are not just a warning but also a promise. While He acknowledges the suffering He will endure, He also assures His disciples of the ultimate triumph over death.
Historical Context
At this point in Jesus’ ministry, opposition to Him was intensifying. The religious leaders were actively seeking ways to eliminate Him, and Jesus was fully aware of the plans forming against Him. His prediction aligns with the broader context of His journey to Jerusalem, where these events would unfold.
For the disciples, the idea of a suffering and dying Messiah was difficult to accept. Jewish expectations of the Messiah often focused on a political or military leader who would liberate Israel. Jesus’ declaration of His death challenged those expectations and left them confused and sorrowful.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the centrality of Jesus’ death and resurrection in God’s plan of salvation. His death was not a tragic accident but a deliberate act of obedience and love, designed to bring redemption to humanity.
The promise of the resurrection points to God’s power over sin and death. It reminds us that even in the face of suffering, God’s purposes prevail, bringing hope and victory.
Literary Analysis
The structure of this verse pairs the statement of Jesus’ death with the promise of His resurrection. The juxtaposition emphasizes the connection between suffering and glory, death and life.
The final phrase, “And the disciples were filled with grief,” adds an emotional layer to the narrative. It shows the disciples’ human reaction to Jesus’ words, highlighting their inability to fully grasp the hope embedded in His promise of resurrection.
Biblical Cross-References
- Matthew 16:21: Jesus begins to teach His disciples about His coming death and resurrection.
- Isaiah 53:4-6: The prophecy of the suffering servant, fulfilled in Jesus’ death for the sins of the world.
- John 10:17-18: Jesus declares that He lays down His life willingly and has the authority to take it up again.
- 1 Corinthians 15:3-4: Paul emphasizes that Christ’s death and resurrection are the foundation of the gospel.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Matthew 17:23 is a powerful reminder of the hope found in Jesus’ resurrection. It encourages us to trust in God’s plan, even when it involves suffering or challenges, knowing that His purposes lead to victory and life.
It also challenges us to see the full picture of Jesus’ mission. Like the disciples, we may sometimes focus on the difficulties or losses in life, but this verse calls us to remember the promise of resurrection and the eternal hope we have in Christ.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident in Jesus’ willingness to face death for humanity’s sake. His sacrifice was an expression of God’s desire to reconcile the world to Himself and offer eternal life to all who believe.
This verse also reflects God’s faithfulness. The resurrection is not just a promise but a demonstration of His power to fulfill His Word and bring life out of death.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Matthew 17:23 points directly to the heart of Jesus’ mission: His death and resurrection. It highlights His role as the Savior who willingly lays down His life to defeat sin and death.
The resurrection is central to Jesus’ identity and mission. It confirms His divinity, validates His teachings, and secures the hope of eternal life for all who trust in Him.
Relevant verses include:
- Romans 5:8: God demonstrates His love by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.
- 1 Peter 1:3: Through Jesus’ resurrection, we have a living hope.
- Revelation 1:18: Jesus holds the keys of death and Hades, showing His ultimate victory.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Why do you think the disciples struggled to understand the promise of Jesus’ resurrection?
- How does this verse challenge you to trust in God’s plan, even when it involves suffering or uncertainty?
- What does this passage teach us about the connection between Jesus’ death and resurrection?
- How can the hope of the resurrection encourage you in your daily life?
- In what ways can you share the message of Jesus’ sacrifice and resurrection with others?